Warning signs of cervical cancer-Cervical
cancer is one of the most common cancers in women worldwide. It occurs in the
cells of the cervix; the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by a virus called human
papillomavirus (HPV). Women of all ages are at risk of developing this cancer
after they begin having sexual intercourse. One of the scariest things about
this cancer is that it does not show any symptoms in its early stages. The
symptoms are more prominent the disease has spread to the bladder, liver,
intestines or lungs.
Being an adult woman, if you notice any
unusual changes or symptoms affecting your reproductive organs, consult your
doctor. Always bear in mind that your chances of successfully treating cervical
cancer are higher if it is detected during the early stages. With the use of
Pap tests and the HPV vaccination, it’s possible to treat as well as prevent
cervical cancer. With knowledge of the risk
factors and warning signs of cervical cancer, you can save yourself and
others from a lifetime of suffering and the factors are as follows
Abnormal
Vaginal Bleeding: Most women diagnosed with cervical cancer experience
irregular bleeding. An untimely bout of vaginal bleeding that occurs regularly
could be an indicator of cervical cancer. It could also be due to other medical
conditions, such as a hormonal imbalance, pelvic inflammatory disease or an
infection in the pelvic organs.As cancer spreads to nearby tissues, it creates
new, abnormal capillaries that break easily and cause bleeding. Such bleeding
may happen between menstrual periods, after sexual intercourse, after menopause
and even after a pelvic exam.Contact your doctor if you experience bleeding
between menstrual cycles or following sexual intercourse.
Unusual
Vaginal Discharge: A little bit of clear, odorless vaginal discharge is
normal. However, if vaginal discharge increases, smells foul or has an
irregular appearance, it could be a sign of infection or cervical or endometrial
cancer.When suffering from cervical cancer, vaginal discharge could be heavy,
pale, watery, brown or mixed with blood. If you experience this symptom, report
it to your doctor immediately.
Pain
During Intercourse: Painful intercourse is another important warning sign of
cervical cancer. This symptom indicates advanced cervical cancer, which means
the cancer has spread throughout tissues and reproductive organs. Apart from
pain, you may also experience other symptoms, such as thick, foul-smelling vaginal
discharge.There are other possible reasons for this particular problem, such as
an infection or STD. Do not ignore this symptom. Get your cervix examined by
your doctor.
Pelvic
Pain: Pelvic pain is common among women. Cramping and aches are a normal part
of the menstrual cycle and do not usually indicate the presence of cancer or
any other serious condition. However, pain that lasts for longer periods of
time and occurs more frequently could be a sign of cervical cancer.If suffering
from cervical cancer, you may experience pelvic pain at unusual times, and the
pain may start suddenly at any time during the month. In addition, such pain
usually does not occur unless the cancer is in a very advanced stage. If you
have experience pelvic pain or pressure, visit your doctor to find out the
exact cause and rule out the possibility of cancer.
Heavier
and Longer Menstrual Periods: Menstrual periods that are heavier and
longer than normal are another common warning sign of cervical cancer.
Irritation of the cervix, possibly due to spread of cervical cancer, can cause
this problem. Bleeding is considered heavy if you have to change sanitary
napkins or tampons more often than once every 2 hours. Apart from cancer, heavy
bleeding can be due to a hormonal imbalance, fibroids, polyps, pelvic
inflammatory disease, endometriosis or thyroid,
Discomfort
While Urinating: Cervical cancer can also cause discomfort during
urination. In fact, it is one of the most obvious and prevalent symptoms of
this deadly disease.Urinary discomforts include burning, stinging or a tight
sensation while urinating. Such symptoms occur when the cancer has spread to
nearby tissue. This requires immediate attention to prevent further damage.
However, urinary discomforts also can be due to other causes, such as a urinary
tract infection, bladder problem, yeast infection or sexually transmitted
disease (STD). Get checked by your doctor for proper diagnosis.
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